Michael Vaughan Disappointed as Rishabh Pant Skips Somersault After Record Twin Centuries

Rishabh Pant, India’s vice-captain, lit up Headingley with a breathtaking display of aggressive yet measured batting, scoring centuries in both innings of the 1st Test against England. His second ton on Day 4 added to his growing legend, making him the first Indian wicketkeeper to score twin centuries in a Test match outside Asia.

However, while Pant’s performance with the bat drew applause from across the cricketing world, his celebration – or the lack of his signature move – left some fans and commentators unexpectedly underwhelmed.

A Different Kind of Celebration

During the first innings, Pant reached his century with flair, capping it off with his now-famous somersault celebration. But in the second innings, the southpaw took a more understated approach. On 99, he nudged a single to bring up his second century but chose to replicate footballer Dele Alli’s viral celebration from 2018 instead of repeating his somersault.

This subtle switch caught fans and pundits by surprise, including former England captain Michael Vaughan, who was on commentary at the time.

“I was waiting for that flip as well. I was rather disappointed on commentary when he didn’t produce a double flip,” said Vaughan. “Knowing Rishabh, he’s always going to try to improve his celebrations, but this one left me a bit puzzled. Can you explain what that was?”

Gavaskar Offers Insight

Responding to Vaughan, former India captain Sunil Gavaskar, who was also on the broadcast panel, offered an explanation for Pant’s uncharacteristic celebration.

“No, I think that gesture was him thanking the gods above. He had something in his eye, and it looked like a moment of reflection and gratitude,” Gavaskar remarked.

Interestingly, cameras captured Gavaskar in the stands gesturing to Pant to repeat the flip, creating a light-hearted and endearing moment that further showcased the camaraderie between the cricketing generations.

Their interaction was reminiscent of a memorable exchange from the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where Gavaskar famously labeled one of Pant’s dismissals as “Stupid. Stupid. Stupid,” only to praise his hundred at Headingley this week as “Superb. Superb. Superb.”

Pant’s Dominant Innings: A Masterclass in Adaptability

Pant walked out to bat early on Day 4 after Shubman Gill was dismissed in the very first over by England pacer Brydon Carse. With India in a vulnerable position, the 27-year-old wicketkeeper-batter approached his innings with a balance of caution and aggression.

He reached 31 off 59 balls before lunch, absorbing the pressure and getting accustomed to the conditions. Post the break, he shifted gears and launched a counter-attack, particularly targeting England’s young spinner Shoaib Bashir, using his feet expertly to disrupt the bowler’s rhythm.

His century came off 130 deliveries – a blend of restraint, aggression, and maturity. Soon after reaching the landmark, he was dismissed for 118 by Joe Root, but not before lifting India to a commanding position.

Historic Feat: Twin Centuries in a Test

With this performance, Pant joined an elite list of players to have scored centuries in both innings of a Test in England. What makes his achievement even more remarkable is that he’s the first Indian wicketkeeper to do so, underscoring his evolution as a world-class Test batter.

His innings also came under testing conditions. The Leeds pitch, offering movement and bounce, required application – a challenge Pant rose to with tactical brilliance. From aggressive drives to audacious reverse sweeps, Pant’s shot selection reflected both confidence and control.

Reactions Pour In

Fans on social media were quick to celebrate the historic innings, but many also echoed Vaughan’s playful disappointment about the missing somersault. Memes and clips of his first-innings celebration flooded Twitter, with captions wondering why the flip was “retired” for the second go.

Several former players, including Wasim Jaffer and Irfan Pathan, praised Pant’s composure, highlighting how he adapted his natural flair to suit the situation.

Looking Ahead

With India in a strong position heading into Day 5, Pant’s performance has set the tone for the team to push for victory. His twin centuries may also reignite discussions around his potential future leadership role, as he continues to mature both as a player and as a vice-captain.

Whether or not we see the somersault again, one thing is certain: Rishabh Pant has etched his name deeper into Test cricket’s legacy, not just through his shots, but through his ever-evolving personality on the field.